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A Look Inside Southern Railway’s 68th Railway Week: Awards & Recognition

0 A sneak peek into the recently concluded 68th Railway Week Celebrations of Southern Railways TEXT: B. GUGANESAN, CHIEF PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, SOUTHERN RAILWAYS Inaugurating the 68th Railway Week Celebrations of Southern Railway, the prestigious ‘Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar 2023’ Award distribution ceremony took place at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Arangam, ICF, Chennai on the 9th of February 2024. At the event, Shri R.N. Singh, General Manager of Southern Railway, served as the Chief Guest and presented Shields to various Divisions/Departments/Workshops. Additionally, individual Awards were bestowed upon officers and staff in recognition of their exceptional performance. In his address, Shri R.N. Singh extended congratulations to the awardees, acknowledging their substantial contributions to the growth and efficiency of Railways. He praised the divisions and workshops for their commendable performance and emphasised Southern Railway’s achievements as a frontrunner in project commissioning, infrastructure enhancement, sectional speed increment, modern coach introduction, and overall improvement in passenger amenities and onboard services. A three-minute video showcasing Southern Railway’s achievements during the 2022-23 period was presented during the ceremony. Shri Kaushal Kishore, Additional General Manager, Southern Railway, Shri Harikrishnan, Principal Chief Personnel Officer, other Principal Heads of Departments, Divisional Railway Managers, and Officers and Staff of Southern Railway actively participated in the function. The event also featured a cultural program, including classical dances and music performed by staff and their wards. Efficiency Shields and Individual Awards were distributed, with Chennai Division securing the General Manager’s Inter Divisional Overall Efficiency Shield, and Tiruchchirappalli Division clinching the Runners-up Shield. A total of 38 Efficiency Shields were awarded for outstanding performance in various railway working areas, while 17 Officers and 82 staff members were honoured with ‘Individual Awards’ for their meritorious contributions. General Manager’s Speech at the 68th Railway Week Celebrations – Vishist Rail Sewa Puraskar Award Dear Colleague officers, Supervisors and staff, Representatives of recognized Trade Union & Associations, Ladies & Gentlemen, I feel really happy and elated to be amongst you on this happy occasion of 68th Railway Week celebrations. As you all know, on 16th April in the year 1853, the first train ran in the Indian Subcontinent, signifying the birth of great Indian Railways, and we celebrate this event in a grand manner every year to mark the occasion. First of all, I congratulate all the awardees here, who have been chosen for making significant contributions to the growth and efficiency of the Railway in its efforts to serve the public. I also congratulate the divisions who have bagged various shields based on their performance. However, it does not mean that those who are not getting awards are any less. I congratulate all our hardworking & dedicated employees, without whose hard work & dedication, Railway could not have performed so well. I am happy to inform that during the year 2022-23 and 2023-24 (upto Jan.), Southern Railway has done very well in the area of commissioning of projects, upgrading the infrastructure, increasing the sectional speed, Introduction of new trains, augmenting coaches, Introduction of modern coaches, Increasing platform length, Improving passenger amenities and onboard services throughout the Southern Railway. These measures have helped us enhance our image in the minds of the public. All our achievements could be possible only due to the hard work and dedication of all our officers, supervisors and staff. Also these achievements would not have been possible without the whole hearted support of our Recognised Union and Associations. On this momentous occasion, I express my sincere thanks to all officers, supervisors, staff of Southern Railway and, I am sure that Southern Railway shall scale even greater heights of excellence in the years to come. Once again, I congratulate one and all and wish all the very best to all our employees for future endeavours and growth. Thank you.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert

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The “Women☕” Trend: What Does it Mean for Women Online & Beyond?

0 Ever scroll on Instagram and see a post with comments flooded with the same phrase over and over – “women ☕”? What’s up with that? We’d say you’re not alone if you tell us you’re miffed with that phrase popping up, every now and then. But where the heck did it come from? Here’s the full story: Origins and Espresso Shots of Sarcasm: On October 9th, 2017, a creator named Tipsy Duck on YouTube, known for his unconventional animations made with the Source Film Maker animation program, uploaded the third video of a series titled “Infomercial: The Pill.” The video’s original intentions were to mock societal beauty standards and women’s insecurity, made in the style of an 80s Western advertisement about a beauty pill. Upon opening the video, at the 13-second mark, you will be greeted by two men drinking coffee in the front yard. There’s some lighthearted banter, but the rest of the video takes an unexpected turn, eventually referencing a stereotype about women’s self-consciousness. The Bitter Aftertaste: Why it Matters? Of course, the question arises—is “women ☕” just a mean laugh, or does it tiptoe into unpleasant territory? Like everything else, it all depends on the context and intentions. Some may use it playfully and in a satirical sense; others may use it as a weapon of belittling and get away with it with the argument, “It’s just a meme, bro!” Is it just a meme? Beyond the Buzz: What We Can Do? No, the meme isn’t always used in a negative context, so think about it for a moment before waging a war with your keyboard- At the end of the day, “women☕” isn’t just a meme but a reminder that the internet world is like a mountainous region with odd peaks. Be respectful and peacefully fight for a more inclusive and compliant internet.

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Anant Ambani’s Pre-Wedding – A Dream or a Dystopian Vision of the Future of Indian Weddings?

0 Love is in the air—or should we say, on private jets and crystal chandeliers? Anant Ambani’s recent pre-wedding extravaganza had tongues wagging, champagne corks popping, and maybe a few raised eyebrows. The lavish event sent shockwaves through the internet, leaving many of us wondering: Is this a #DreamWedding or a glimpse into a future filled with FOMO-inducing matrimonies? Let’s delve into the heart of the matter. Opulence vs. Reality: Are These the New Benchmarks? While the extravagance is easy to gawk at, the underlying message has us scratching our heads. Are these the new benchmarks for weddings? The answer is No. Here’s the thing: most of us aren’t billionaires. Not everyone can go for a 500-dishes daily menu, arrange luxury tents for their guests, or even fly in one of the biggest names in the game for a concert. Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding bash might be throwing glitter bombs on the whole wedding game, making it seem like “I do” comes with a hefty seven-figure price tag. But let’s not get blinded by the sparkle – this magnific fete is the outlier, not the rule. Beyond the Billions: The Typical Wedding Landscape These high-profile dream weddings might look magical on screen, but in reality, they’ve fueled fierce competition in the Indian wedding landscape. It’s a never-ending game of one-upmanship driven by the desperate desire to be in the public eye. Social media, the ever-present culprit, whispers that bigger budgets translate to a “wow factor” and a more “perfect” wedding. But let’s get the facts clear! Most Indian families aren’t rolling in rupees. While lakhs, or maybe a couple of crores, might be considered for a grand ceremony, dropping a fortune can leave a severe dent in their budget. So, what does the future hold?  No one can predict what will happen in the future. Would weddings be intimate experiences and celebrations of a bond or just another thing with which to flex your riches? We’d say somewhere in between. Maybe Anant’s pre-wedding carnival will spark a change! Bringing out a sense in people that “I do” doesn’t need to be about chasing clout or the number of ‘Likes’ they score on Instagram. The real meaning of “I do” lies in chemistry, compatibility and connection between the two people. While the glitz and glamour of weddings may fade, the bond between partners lasts. The celebration should be about the love you share, not the wealth you spend because love is priceless.

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Vada Pav: Mumbai’s King of Snacks Takes a Global Bow!

0 Step aside, Cheesesteak and Croque Monsieur, for a new contender approaches the arena! Bombay’s beloved Vada Pav has won a spot in the TasteAtlas “Top 50 Sandwiches of the World” list, and it’s not just a small feat! Not to mention, the delicious potato patty dish has won 19th place! It represents how the Indian snack culture has the potential to be on top of the world. But what’s the deal about Vada Pav? You can never go wrong with a good vada pav, a nice G.B.D (Golden Brown Delicious) potato patty between fluffy, toasted and buttered buns and the swirling, unique flavours of the chutney. It’s served with a crispy green chilli for that punch and some chopped onion for the crunch. Uff, anyone’s mouth would water at the thought. The explosion of flavours and the mix of textures will make anyone return for more. Don’t take our word for it because not only is the Vada Pav the 19th best sandwich, according to Tasteatlas, but it’s also the 8th best potato dish! But why the global recognition? Vada Pav’s taste is phenomenal and iconic; the flavours tingle your tongue in ways you’d never imagine – the perfect mixture of chutneys and spicy potatoes, everything about this dish is perfect. As much as the taste is outstanding, it’s only part of the reason for its popularity! It’s also a testament to: So, the next time you’re in Mumbai, walk past all those fancy restaurants and go to a local stall for a piping hot, sweet, and spicy Vada Pav. Go straight to the source to find out how this simple potato sandwich has seized Mumbai and crores in India and now globally.

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#25 Railway Heritage Walks: Unveiling Hidden Gems and Forgotten Routes (Indian Railways Series)

0 Photo: Pinterest  Discovering Railway History on Heritage Walks India’s railway network has a rich history and heritage waiting to be explored. Railway-themed heritage walks are uncovering this legacy through guided tours of hidden gems, old stations, and tunnels. These walks spotlight unique facts and stories to appreciate the railways’ contributions. Hidden Histories  Do you know Mumbai’s iconic Victoria Terminus station was designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens? Shockingly, the UNESCO World Heritage Site borrows Gothic, Hindu, and Islamic architectural styles. Kolkata’s Howrah Bridge uses 26,500 tonnes of steel trusses fabricated in England. These fascinating nuggets of history and engineering trivia are highlighted on railway heritage walks.    Not only that, many walks even traverse forgotten tunnels and routes to highlight railway expansion. The old Yamuna Bridge connecting Delhi and Lahore is a must-see on the Delhi Walk. Experiencing Heritage  Heritage walks are guided by experts who share insider stories and lesser-known facts. You get to discover the vision behind stations, bridges, and workshops on these curated trails. It’s amazing to identify old locomotives, signaling systems, meters, and coaches that built our rail network: spot colonial markers, boundary walls, and milestones along the trail.  You’ll also appreciate how railway lines align with local history. The Chennai Egmore Museum walk shows this beautifully.  Preserving Knowledge For railway enthusiasts, heritage walks are windows into the unique engineering, architectural, and social facets that shaped rail history. They build awareness so that heritage sites are valued and preserved. Many walks even support station restoration to retain our rail heritage.  Whether you’re a train lover or a history buff, railway heritage walks uncover a new side to India’s train journey. Source-

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#24 Railway Photography: Capturing The Timeless Beauty of Steam Trains (Indian Railways Series)

0 Photo: Pinterest  Capturing the Romance of Steam Trains  Do you remember those iconic images of billowing steam locomotives chugging across bridges and mountains? Vintage railway photography beautifully captures the nostalgia and old-world charm of heritage trains in India. These artful photos transport us back to the golden age of steam railways. Beginnings Railway photography gained popularity in India when trains were first introduced in the 1850s. Photographers documented historic events like the arrival of the first trains in cities across India.  Do you know one of the earliest railway photographs is of the 1854 Mumbai-Thane train inauguration? Shockingly, it was clicked by an unknown Indian photographer, not a British studio. By the late 1800s, publishers like Johnston & Hoffmann commissioned stunning images of trains winding through landscapes. Indians too became avid railway photographers. Artistry and Nostalgia Vintage rail images showcase both the artistic composition and the train’s aesthetics. Dramatic angles, lighting, and black and white tones accentuated the locomotive’s old-world allure. Billowing clouds of steam, intricate engine details, and the scale of bridges created a powerful sense of drama and romance in rail travel.  You’ll be amazed at how iconic these nostalgic images have become as symbols of adventure and progress. Pop Culture Connect Rail photography also popularised trains in Indian pop culture. Iconic calendar art and Bollywood song sequences were shot at heritage rail sites. Remember the evergreen song ‘Rail Gadi Mein Jhoom Barabar‘ with scenes of a classic steam train? Such images kindled the public’s fascination with railways. Captured for posterity, vintage railway photography immortalized the irresistible magic and power of iron horses that popularised train travel in India. Today, vintage rail images are a window into the grand railway heritage of India. They showcase ingenious engineering and design that make train travel aspirational. More importantly, they highlight the romance, excitement, and joy of exploring India’s diverse landscapes by rail. These images continue to inspire us each time we embark on our train journeys across India. As platforms for nostalgia, history, and artistry, vintage railway photographs beautifully freeze the timeless appeal of trains in India.  Source

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#23 Railway Ghost Stories & Urban Legends (Indian Railways Series)

0 Photo: Flickr Spine-Chilling Tales from Across India Traveling across India by train, one can’t miss the many spine-tingling stories of railway ghost sightings and paranormal activities. Several stations and trains have chilling urban legends behind them. Read on for some spooky railway ghost stories from around India. The Vanishing Lady in White The beautiful Peshawar Express is haunted by a lady in white who mysteriously vanishes from the train on full moon nights! Do you know sightings have been reported near Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh?  Shockingly, many claim the white lady asks for lifts from strangers before disappearing into thin air. Legend says she is the ghost of a lady killed on her wedding night on that train many years ago. The Dancing Little Girl The deserted Burdwan station in West Bengal always wears a deserted look. But over the years, passengers have reported sighting a young girl in a frock dancing playfully on platform no. 3 in the night. You’ll be amazed to know that cleaners have even found tiny footprints near the platform in the morning. Locals believe the girl fell off a moving train years ago and now haunts the platform. Spooky. The Headless Passenger In hushed tones, passengers talk of a headless man aboard the Mumbai-Goa passenger train, especially during the monsoons. Not only that, people have apparently also witnessed a headless figure walking towards the toilet at night. Urban legend says the ghost is of a man who lost his head when he stuck it out of the door foolishly. Definitely sends chills down one’s spine. Tales of restless spirits, mysterious apparitions, and ghostly sightings have become part of railway folklore across India. Traveling at night, keep an eye out for paranormal activities on the tracks. Source

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#22 The Fairy Queen: The Oldest Operational Steam Locomotive In Asia (Indian Railways Series)

0 Photo: Wikipedia  Fairy Queen: Asia’s Oldest Working Steam Locomotive The famous Fairy Queen locomotive holds the record for being the world’s oldest operational steam engine! This national treasure was built in 1855 and runs heritage tours on India’s railways. Steeped in history, the Fairy Queen gives us a glimpse into the romantic era of steam trains in India.  Made in Britain Do you know the Fairy Queen was built by Kitson, Thompson, and Hewitson in Leeds, Britain, way back in 1855? She was shipped to Kolkata and assembled at the historic Howrah Locomotive Works. Shockingly, this tiny loco weighed only 12 tonnes but had immense pulling power. She was put into service hauling mail trains between Howrah and Raniganj in West Bengal. Not only that, she set a speed record in India by sprinting at an unheard of speed of 43 mph during trials. No wonder she was christened the ‘Fairy Queen’. Retirement and Revival By 1900, the Fairy Queen was retired from regular service as newer engines arrived. She languished for decades in a railway shed before being discovered and restored.  In 1997, after extensive renovation, the 142-year old Fairy Queen returned to the tracks! This made her the world’s oldest working steam locomotive.  You’ll be amazed to know she was declared a National Treasure in 2002. The Guinness Book of World Records also certified her as the oldest operational engine. Legacy Railway Tours Today, the Fairy Queen operates heritage railway tours between Delhi, Cantt, and Alwar. Tourists can ride this vintage beauty and relive the grandeur of 19th century train travel. With her gleaming green livery, polished woodwork, and steam whistles, she transports you back in time. Passengers are served high tea on fine china as the Queen chugs along. At 165 years old now, she reminds us of the rich history of Indian Railways. The sprightly Fairy Queen is cherished as the doyenne of our locomotive fleet and the reigning queen of steam engines in Asia. Source

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